Lead Sous Chef - Fast-Paced, High-Volume Kitchen

Stew Leonard; Paramus (NJ); On-site; USD 52,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Weekly pay

Pay range $25-$27/hr

Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, Life

Job summary

Stew Leonard’s is seeking a talented and experienced Sous Chef to join our fast-paced kitchen team in Paramus, NJ. You will work closely with the Executive Chef to oversee daily operations, lead kitchen staff, and uphold top standards of food quality, safety, and presentation.

This role requires strong culinary skills, leadership experience, and the ability to manage evenings, weekends, and holidays. Competitive hourly pay and benefits are provided.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum 2 years of experience as a Sous Chef or Senior Line Cook in a high-volume kitchen.
• Strong culinary skills and a passion for high-quality food.
• Proven leadership abilities and team management experience.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety and hygiene standards.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.
• Good computer skills with basic knowledge of Excel/Word.
• Good organizational skills.
• Ability to delegate tasks and communicate directions clearly.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate with the Executive Chef to plan service and manage workflow.
• Assist in the development of new menu items and specials.
• Supervise and support all kitchen staff during food prep and service.
• Train, mentor, and evaluate kitchen team members.
• Maintain efficiency and quality throughout busy service periods.
• Ensure dishes are prepared and presented in line with recipes and standards.
• Assist with scheduling, shift coverage, and staff development.
• Provide encouragement to team members, including communicating deadlines and goals.
• Provide quality customer service, including interacting with customers.
• Monitor inventory levels and assist with ordering supplies.
• Ensure proper storage, labeling, and rotation of stock.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation standards.

Skills

Leadership

Culinary skills

Customer service

Excel/Word basics

Communication

Organization

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Job description

Stew Leonard’s is seeking a talented and experienced Sous Chef to join our fast-paced kitchen team in Paramus, NJ. You will work closely with the Executive Chef to oversee daily operations, lead kitchen staff, and uphold top standards of food quality, safety, and presentation.

This role requires strong culinary skills, leadership experience, and the ability to manage evenings, weekends, and holidays. Competitive hourly pay and benefits are provided.